We are always excited to host guests and we were happy to receive Elise’s high school classmate, Israel, for an extended weekend. Since we had been to Wasserfallen in the autumn, we thought we should head back now that it is spring.
Although the Basel Fasnacht (Fasching, Carnival) is the largest carnival celebration in Switzerland and largest protestant carnival in the world, it is not the only tradition in the region. Over dinner last weekend Louisa and David invited me to join them in nearby Liestal for the tradition of the Chienbäse parade.
Coming from the midwest, living in an area with mountains can surprise. Heading up to Wasserfallen on Saturday we saw the first snow of the year for the region.
In the spirit of so many wonderful family vacations I remember as a kid, we had to organize a memorable trip for my parents when they came to visit this year.
I have often spoken of spring exuberance. It seems like the warming of the weather also warms my spirits, bringing changes not only in weather, but also in life. This could not be more true this year, with a new job, new home, new country, and a new website.
Last year after such a terrible 2012 and its particularly long winter, I spoke of spring exuberance as the weather grew warmer and was so grateful for the change in season as well as the changes in our lives.
This year we are generally much happier, though that is not stopping a renewal of spring exuberance for 2014. The weather has been fantastic and we have been keeping busy.
